Labor groups in South Korea are demanding a legal minimum wage of 12,000 won ($7.90) for next year, representing a 16.3 percent increase from the current rate.

South Korea has signed an initial agreement with the European Union to share passenger name record (PNR) data, marking the first such deal for an Asian nation, according to the Korea Customs Service.

Stock markets in Japan and South Korea experienced gains, driven by investor optimism regarding the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Pyongyang is seen as a potential turning point in the international debate over North Korea’s nuclear weapons program.

An article details the chaos and division of the Korean peninsula following its liberation in 1945, including the impact of the US and Soviet militaries and the Moscow Conference.

The article discusses valuable Korean beauty habits that are worth adopting, emphasizing that they differ from the often exaggerated trends seen on TikTok.

Korean beauty retailer CJ Olive Young has opened its second US store in Los Angeles, named Olive Young Century City, as part of its accelerated expansion efforts in one of its fastest-growing overseas markets.

South Korean First Lady Kim Hea-kyung has maintained a low-key public role one year into President Lee Jae Myung’s administration, a deliberate approach to reduce "first lady risk" and contrast with her predecessor.

A new survey indicates that nearly a quarter of South Koreans in Seoul did not engage in binge drinking last year, suggesting a potential shift in the country's drinking culture.

South Korea's exports of information and communication technology products recorded their highest monthly figure ever in May, fueled by strong global demand for semiconductors and other AI-related products.

Hanwha Galleria has extended exclusive negotiations with H&Q Equity Partners regarding the sale of its stake in Five Guys Korea. The retail arm of Hanwha Group renewed a memorandum of understanding to continue discussions on the potential deal.

New data reveals that one out of three South Koreans is obese, with men in their 30s and 40s showing the highest rates, exceeding 50 percent.

Analysts suggest that Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visit to North Korea significantly improved Kim Jong-un's international standing, giving him a 'big strategic win', with some observers viewing the visit as a counter to closer Moscow-Pyongyang ties.

North Korea has protested against a joint statement by Seoul and the EU that criticized its deepening ties with Russia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping was hosted at Pyongyang's Kumsusan State Guest House, a strictly guarded complex considered North Korea's equivalent of Beijing's Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, symbolizing high diplomatic importance.

Lee Sunny, a renowned violin teacher whose students include rising star Kim Seo-hyun, shares her philosophy on teaching and expresses skepticism about the concept of 'prodigies.'

A new report identifies the most challenging languages for English speakers to learn, noting that while languages like Spanish or Italian can be mastered in under a year, achieving proficiency in Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, or Arabic can take significantly longer.

South Korea's ousted president Yoon Suk Yeol and his former defense minister were sentenced to 30 years in prison for allegedly ordering drone flights over Pyongyang to heighten tensions and justify declaring martial law.

The Tumen River has emerged as a significant issue in relations between China and North Korea, though it was not mentioned in official statements following a recent summit between the two countries' leaders.

An opinion piece discusses why recent changes to North Korea's constitution should be a cause for global concern.

The first official photos of the new generation Hyundai i20 have been released, showcasing the updated design approach for the popular Korean model ahead of its anticipated official presentation.

SpaceX shares have indicated a more than 35% increase on gray markets, with South Korea's Hanmi Semiconductor announcing its intention to acquire shares in the aerospace company.

Nomura's senior economist states that the AI-led semiconductor boom has not significantly impacted South Korea's wider economy, raising concerns about currency and financial stability that could lead to a Bank of Korea rate hike in July.

Nomura analysts argue that South Korea's stock market should no longer trade at emerging market valuations, citing record profitability, stronger shareholder returns, and AI-led semiconductor earnings as reasons for a broader rerating.

Emergency crews responded to multiple incidents on Seoraksan mountain in South Korea, including the rescue of an Australian hiker and the death of another individual, within a 24-hour period.

The Bank of Korea's chief has indicated that further interest rate hikes are likely as inflation risks continue to persist. This signals a proactive stance by the central bank to curb inflationary pressures in the economy.

China and Russia are reportedly competing for influence over North Korea. This rivalry highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region and the strategic importance of Pyongyang to both global powers.

Pizza Maru, a popular South Korean pizza chain, has officially received halal certification in Singapore and is offering a 50% discount on Ban Ban pizzas to commemorate the occasion.

A five-day camp has opened for young overseas Koreans living in Korea, designed to help them learn about Korean history and culture. Hosted by the Overseas Koreans Agency, the camp also assists students in adjusting to life in the country.

A Korean American woman in Johns Creek, Georgia, was shot and killed by her husband in an apparent murder-suicide, according to local reports. The couple's three children were at home during the incident.

South Korea's finance ministry has expressed concerns that the country could face higher consumer prices and a slower job market. This assessment was made in its monthly economic report, citing the fallout from the ongoing Middle East war.

South Korean President Lee and Italian President Mattarella have agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a special strategic partnership. President Lee is also set to receive Italy's highest decoration for his efforts in promoting cooperation between the two nations.

A guide to various festivals and attractions across South Korea, including the Worasan Hydrangea Festival, offers visitors diverse cultural and natural experiences.

Controversial streamer Johnny Somali is appealing his six-month prison sentence in South Korea, arguing that his inability to access bipolar medication should be considered for leniency. While his lawyer acknowledges some offenses, prosecutors are pushing for a stricter outcome.

The National Museum of Korea in Seoul is showcasing two treasured gilt-bronze bodhisattva statues from the 6th and 7th centuries in its 'Room of Quiet Contemplation', offering a serene experience away from the city's hustle.

North Korea's economy is reportedly experiencing a surprising growth after years of stagnation, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis based on visitor testimonies and South Korean think-tank research.

The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), and HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) have successfully completed a joint development project for an ultra-large 16,000 TEU containership featuring a high-efficiency battery hybrid system.

The Daejeon District Court ordered a former teacher, Myeong Jae-wan, to pay 127 million won ($83,000) in compensation to the bereaved family of a 7-year-old student he murdered at her school.

A report highlights the often-overlooked issue of child labor in South Korea, focusing on children who take on significant caregiving responsibilities, a modern form of child labor distinct from historical factory or farm work.

Police investigators raided the National Election Commission and its local offices in South Korea, investigating shortages of ballots during recent local elections.

The United States has approved a potential sale of advanced air-to-air missiles, valued at $292 million, to South Korea. This deal includes the AMRAAM missiles, enhancing South Korea's aerial defense capabilities.

Starbucks Korea has seen a recovery in sales within three weeks following the 'Tank Day' campaign, which had previously sparked widespread backlash and affected transactions.

US investment firm KKR identified South Korea as a compelling valuation opportunity in Asia, suggesting that ongoing corporate governance reforms could significantly unlock upside potential, according to its midyear 2026 outlook report.

Two workers in their 40s died after falling from the 11th floor of an apartment building in Busan, South Korea, when a balcony railing gave way during the installation of an outdoor air-conditioning unit.

India's ambassador to Seoul stated that South Korea and India should deepen economic cooperation in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, shipbuilding, clean energy, and critical minerals, highlighting growing opportunities for Korean businesses.

South Korea has emerged as a significant arms supplier to Europe, capitalizing on increased demand from the war in Ukraine and European rearmament efforts, with Romania among the major buyers.

South Korea's leading biopharmaceutical firms, Samsung Biologics and Celltrion, are facing unprecedented labor disputes between their unions and management despite strong earnings.

The Korea Tourism Organization has named members of the band N.Flying as honorary ambassadors for its HiKR brand.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung concluded his trip to Brussels, where he met with EU leaders to discuss deepening economic ties and cooperation in trade and information sharing.

Korean retail investors are experiencing massive forced liquidations after making aggressive leveraged bets on AI and semiconductor stocks like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, as the market's 'AI bubble' shows signs of bursting.

AI firm Utopai Studios will co-produce and invest in 'Half Moon,' the debut feature film from South Korean filmmaker Hyo-joo Yang, known for her Silver Bear-winning short 'Broken Night'.

Tomas Godliauskas, head of the "Universal Defense" association, discusses the future of universal defense in Lithuania, emphasizing that citizens must be ready to defend the state and the state must defend all citizens. He explores models from Finland, Singapore, and South Korea as potential paths for Lithuania.

North Korea has reportedly expanded its uranium capacity, a move that signals growing nuclear ambitions.

Starbucks stores across South Korea will close for half a day next week for staff to attend a history lesson, following a promotional campaign that went awry.

South Korea's efforts to advance in artificial intelligence are being hindered by a lack of sufficient electricity, a problem that cannot be resolved by chip technology alone, as the nation competes with global AI leaders.

South Korea announced it will host the 'K-Expo France 2026' in Paris this week to promote exports of Korean cultural content, food, beauty products, fashion, and tourism.

Security ministers from North Korea and Vietnam held talks in Pyongyang to discuss expanding cooperation on public security and law enforcement, according to North Korean state media.

North Korea has reiterated that its nuclear status is irreversible, signaling a firm stance on its weapons program.

Lee is visiting the Vatican to meet with Pope Leo XIV and seek the Holy See's support for peace efforts on the Korean Peninsula. This visit aims to garner international backing for Korean peace initiatives.

Choi Jung-wha, the first Korean international conference interpreter and a long-time advocate for Korea's image abroad, has passed away at the age of 70 after battling breast cancer.

Major South Korean conglomerates, including Samsung, SK, and LG, are rapidly integrating artificial intelligence tools across their operations, shifting from previous caution to a broad push for workplace transformation.

South Korea's Mirae Asset Securities, the sole domestic member of the underwriting syndicate, failed to secure any share allocation as SpaceX made a record-setting debut in the public market.

South Korea's judiciary is addressing the issue of artificial intelligence generating nonexistent 'ghost precedents,' which attorneys have cited in legal submissions, prompting a response from the courts.

Shares of US-listed e-commerce giant Coupang Inc. surged after South Korea's privacy regulator imposed a record fine for a massive customer-data leak, with investors viewing the penalty as resolving a six-month uncertainty.

LG Innotek CEO Moon Hyuk-soo announced that Korea has largely completed development of glass substrates for AI hardware, though some challenges remain before mass production. This technology is seen as Korea's next major bet in the AI sector.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, following Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Pyongyang, is seen by observers as a form of strategic hedging.

A Hungarian article highlights the critical role of bees in producing one-third of the world's food and warns of severe consequences if these pollinators disappear. Climate change and bee mortality rates signal a grim future, with a focus on South Korean beekeepers.

Canada is set to choose between Germany and South Korea within 30 days for the acquisition of 12 new submarines, a decision that could mark the country's largest military procurement ever and is crucial for Arctic patrolling.

Ukraine's General Staff reported that Russia produces up to 50 Kh-101 cruise missiles per month, relying on Western electronics and components from North Korea.

South Korea's military has grounded its locally manufactured LAH-1 Miron helicopters after discovering corrosion and other defects in their engines.

The 2026 American Burger Week, an annual celebration of American-style craft burgers, is currently taking place in Korea with 45 participating brands.

South Korea's First Lady Kim Hea Kyung attended a creative hanbok fashion show in Rome, expressing her hope for deeper understanding and stronger friendship between South Korea and Italy through traditional Korean attire.

South Korea and dozens of UN member states have launched an informal group aimed at addressing technology-facilitated trafficking in persons. This initiative follows Seoul's increased diplomatic efforts to tackle online scams and related issues.

A US lawmaker has introduced a House resolution to honor a late US politician's congressional legacy, specifically highlighting his significant contributions to the South Korea-US alliance.

An analysis suggests that efforts to halt North Korea's nuclear program have failed, with the regime's strength growing and its doomsday weapons now enshrined in the constitution, ensuring a 'dead hand' capability even if Kim Jong Un dies.

A former South Korean leader, already serving a life sentence, has been sentenced to an additional 30 years in prison. The new conviction is related to the sending of drones.

A report analyzes the brief 12-hour conflict with Iran and the role of former US President Trump in its cessation, drawing unexpected insights from a startup's relationship with Google and North Korea's nuclear ambitions.

Lee attended a business roundtable in Rome to explore economic cooperation between South Korea and Italy. During his visit, Lee also received Italy's highest honor.

Sources indicate that South Korea's SK Hynix plans to choose Nasdaq for its upcoming US listing, signaling a significant move for the semiconductor giant.

This article reflects on the historical context and development of the Korean stock market, referencing observations from the 17th-century Dutch seafarer Hendrik Hamel about Korea's well-governed society.

Barclays reports that a strategic pivot by the Korea Pension Fund has significantly amplified stock market swings, contributing to increased volatility.

Both South Korea’s ruling and main opposition parties are experiencing post-election turmoil, with their leaders facing increasing pressure to resign following the June 3 local elections.

Hanwha Ocean has secured a significant victory over HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in the bid for South Korea's 7.8 trillion won destroyer project, advancing the nation's naval modernization program.

Seoul stocks saw a significant rise of over 4 percent, with the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index closing up 359.67 points, as investors reacted positively to hopes for a swift resolution to the crisis in the Middle East.

Coupang, the US-listed e-commerce firm, has announced its intention to dispute the Korean Personal Information Protection Commission's decision to impose a $410 million fine over alleged data leaks.

The Korean fashion industry is showing signs of recovery after a prolonged downturn, with growth driven by shoppers' preference for personal taste and designer brands rather than a single dominant trend.

The Bank of Korea governor announced that interest rates would be raised 'on time,' indicating an anticipated increase in borrowing costs. This statement suggests a proactive monetary policy response to economic conditions.

Korean media giant CJ ENM is redefining its K-drama strategy with series like 'Kitchen Soldier' and 'Filing for Love,' emphasizing international co-production over solely 'Made in Korea' content.

BTS-mania, with all the fan spending and travel, is poised to boost South Korea's economy well into the future

South Korea has hosted a military engineering and medical training program for troops from countries participating in UN peacekeeping missions, aiming to contribute to international peace operations.

The South Korean Air Force has commenced its annual Soaring Eagle exercise, a key aerial combat drill aimed at enhancing operational capability and assessing combat readiness against potential threats.

South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung paid tribute to Italy's fallen soldiers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, laying a wreath and offering a silent prayer.

Details on how to watch the World Cup match between South Korea and Czechia via a free live stream are provided.

Local elections for mayors, governors, and legislators were held in South Korea on June 3. These elections are being analyzed to determine if they reveal emerging trends or confirm existing patterns in the country's democratic landscape.

Sonny was a star for Tottenham Hotspur for many years, earning him a lot of fans.

Police in Kaunas, Lithuania, are searching for a missing man, while authorities in Poland are looking for a 17-year-old Korean girl who left her apartment and has not returned.

The United States and South Korea have held discussions on nuclear deterrence as North Korea continues to expand its arms capabilities.

Korean sunscreens are gaining popularity among Greek women this year, praised for their high UV protection, light textures, and non-greasy finish.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's recent visit to Korea generated significant local interest, including his playful request to be called 'K-Jensen' and a moment where he was unable to answer a specific question.

Parents and legal guardians in South Korea and abroad can now apply online to renew passports for children under 18, a new service launched by the Foreign Ministry.

South Korea's National Tax Service announced plans to expand its role beyond national taxes, aiming to become a centralized collector of all government revenue, including fines, penalties, and compensation payments.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is scheduled to visit South Korea to meet with major tech companies including Samsung, Kakao, and Naver. The discussions are expected to focus on AI adoption and potential collaborations.

Woori Bank announced plans to introduce a dedicated digital wallet service for overseas tourists visiting South Korea in the second half of the year, aiming to simplify payments and enhance access to local financial services.

Police data in South Korea reveals that nearly 1 in 10 drug suspects are now using virtual assets for transactions, raising concerns about the traceability of online drug deals.

South Korea and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to accelerate joint carbon reduction projects and expand climate cooperation, following talks held during UN climate meetings in Bonn, Germany.

The Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) highlighted $240 billion in Korean investment at the Congressional Baseball Game in Washington. The event also provided details on how to stream the charity game.

Russia and China are reportedly competing for influence in North Korea, with analysts observing significant signals for Washington. Kim Jong Un is balancing ties between the two major powers.

Former Jindo Governor Kim Hee-su has been advised by the National Human Rights Commission of Korea to undergo human rights education after suggesting South Korea 'import women from Sri Lanka and Vietnam' to address its population crisis.

As Japanese and South Korean multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) manufacturers shift focus to high-end AI server demand, Chinese firms are seizing opportunities in lower-end market segments.

A hotel in southwestern Japan has announced its decision to remove a stone monument dedicated to a Korean independence activist from the colonial era. The move comes after protests from conservative groups in Japan.

South Korea's exports jumped 86 percent year-on-year in the first 10 days of June, reaching $28.6 billion, driven by robust semiconductor shipments and setting a new record high.

South Korea experienced a loss of 40,000 jobs in May compared to the previous year, marking the first decline in 17 months amidst economic uncertainties exacerbated by the prolonged Middle East conflict.

By 2030, women in South Korea are projected to become the first population in human history to have an average life expectancy exceeding 90 years. This marks a historic milestone in longevity.

A Danish newspaper article discusses the significant impact of education choices on salary in light of AI, a report on Kim Jong-un's dictatorship in North Korea, and the Social Democrats' new immigration policy.

South Korea's tourism agency announced a new initiative to offer 5,000 won ($3.3) discounts on express and intercity bus fares to foreign visitors, aiming to encourage travel beyond the capital region.

Shinsegae Group, the parent company of Starbucks Korea, announced that executives and employees will undergo historical awareness training following a controversial promotion linked to the 1980 pro-democracy movement.

South Korea's bourse operator Monday activated a buy-side sidecar for the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index as the index spiked sharply, boosted by a peace deal agreement reached between…

A commentary discusses the implications of remarks made by a US general regarding South Korea's military position in East Asia, suggesting that Seoul finds itself in a challenging diplomatic situation.

South Korea and Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to enhance cooperation in crude oil and gas. This partnership aims to strengthen energy ties between the two nations.

A joint team of police and prosecutors is expected to question South Korean election watchdog officials regarding shortages of ballot papers during the June 3 local elections.

Korean skincare products, once a secret among beauty enthusiasts, are now globally popular, with Korean sunscreens in particular gaining a dedicated following due to their effectiveness.

Speculation is growing about a deepening rift within South Korea's ruling party, with attention focused on whether Rep. Jung Chung-rae, the current party chair, will seek to extend his term ahead of the August leadership primary.

South Korea's political parties are launching task forces to reform the National Election Commission following ballot shortages during recent local elections, which have drawn criticism against the election watchdog.

A survey in South Korea found that nearly 1 in 10 middle and high school students perceive characters who smoke on TV and YouTube as 'attractive' or 'cool'.

Medical expenditures by foreign tourists in South Korea reached a record high in May, driven by demand for South Korean pharmaceutical products and health and beauty services.

Anthropic's Claude has surpassed Google's Gemini to become the second-highest-grossing generative AI app on Apple's App Store in South Korea, challenging the market dominance of ChatGPT and Gemini.

Foreign investors have traded more than 6 trillion won ($3.9 billion) through Korea's new omnibus account system, indicating strong global demand for easier access to the local stock market. Interactive Brokers is among the early adopters of the system.

NVIDIA has announced new collaborations, partnering with Nebius to support an AI robotics startup in Europe and with South Korea's LG Group for humanoid robots and data centers. These partnerships aim to advance AI and robotics development across different regions.

June 14, 2000, marked the historic first inter-Korean summit where President Kim Dae-jung met North Korean leader Kim Jong-il in Pyongyang, leading to a five-point joint statement aimed at increasing exchanges and family reunions.

The global supergroup BTS has revealed plans for a series of book releases, starting in September, which will delve into their song lyrics and favorite Korean dishes, published in partnership with Hachette Book Group.

Seoul, South Korea, is highlighted as a safe, clean, and progressive city with a rich history of war and traditions. Travel tips include exploring Taekwondo classes, the military zone, and local cuisine.

Enzyme baths, a heat therapy involving fermented rice bran, are gaining popularity among younger Koreans in their 20s and 30s as a new wellness trend.

The US Treasury Department has published a list of medical devices that now require 'specific authorization' for export to North Korea. This move appears to tighten licensing requirements for these items amidst North Korea's activities.

A South Korean drama has once again claimed the top spot on Netflix's global viewership charts, highlighting the continued popularity of South Korean productions. Its success demonstrates that these series do not require large budgets to achieve widespread appeal.

Banks are reportedly curbing leveraged bets on Korean tech firms, particularly SK Hynix, which has been a poster child for 'Vol Up, Spot Up' FOMO-chasing. This move comes amid concerns over exuberant semi-shortage panic-buying.

Following the boom in Korean AI ETFs, two Taiwanese options are highlighted for investors seeking direct exposure to the AI supply chain.

South Korea has issued a fine of Won624.68 billion (approximately $400 million) to e-commerce giant Coupang. The fine is a result of a data breach that affected millions of users.

Western pundits reportedly acknowledged the summit between President Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un as a success, with both sides appearing to achieve their objectives.

South Korea's justice ministry has imposed a travel ban on the former head of the National Election Commission (NEC) as investigators probe ballot shortages during recent local elections.

South Korea and Britain signed a revised nuclear cooperation protocol and discussed ways to deepen their global strategic partnership, according to Seoul's foreign ministry.

Major-General Arnaut Moreira stated that Trump is a master of manipulating perceptions and suggested Xi Jinping's visit to Korea was driven by jealousy to counter Putin's influence.

South Korea reported a 6% rise in import sales during the month of May, indicating growth in its trade sector.

South Korea's securities firms reported a record net profit of 4.33 trillion won ($2.63 billion) in the first quarter of this year, nearly half of last year's total, driven by a significant increase in stock trading activity.

Following a significant rally, banks are reportedly limiting hedge fund investments in South Korean semiconductor giants SK Hynix and Samsung.

South Korea and Peru convened their inaugural joint committee on climate change cooperation, focusing on strengthening collaboration for international greenhouse gas reduction projects and Paris Agreement implementation.

LG Electronics is converting its R&D campus in southern Seoul into Korea's first 'data factory' for humanoid robots, where hundreds of its CLOiD machines will perform everyday tasks for training.

An analysis suggests NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) is a 'forever stock' to buy, citing its growing business ties in Korea as a key factor.

Former South Korean President Yoon was reportedly given a prison term for unauthorized drone flights over Pyongyang.

South Korean boy group Epex will embark on a concert tour next month, with performances scheduled in Seoul, Tokyo, and Taipei starting mid-July.

While China's power is at a historical peak, its influence over North Korea has considerably diminished, even as the relationship between the two nations reaches new heights.

South Korea's antitrust watchdog, the Fair Trade Commission, has approved NS Shopping Co.'s acquisition of the compact-format supermarket chain Homeplus Express, stating the deal is unlikely to hinder fair competition.

South Korean chipmaker SK hynix Inc. is reportedly considering expanding its use of artificial intelligence technologies to transform internal work processes, following a similar initiative by rival Samsung Electronics Co.

Nvidia has forged several agreements with South Korean companies, aiming to expand the country's role in the semiconductor and physical AI industries and potentially fuel a new industrial revolution.

Vangelis Marinakis launched a strong attack on Zoe Konstantopoulou, accusing her of exploiting human pain for her career. He also criticized SYRIZA, claiming they transformed public television into a channel that North Korea would envy.

The 'Ciao! Italia' festival, organized by the Italian Embassy and Cultural Institute in Seoul, will be held in Chuncheon, South Korea, from June 11 to June 14, celebrating Italian culture.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent a congratulatory letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of Russia's national day, according to North Korean state media.

Prosecutors in South Korea raided a US air base in Gunsan over allegations of fraud involving a local employee at the facility, conducting a search and seizure operation.

Analysts are debating whether Beijing has softened its stance on a nuclear weapon-free Korean peninsula, noting that China did not mention the issue after Xi Jinping's visit to North Korea.

Cuba's top envoy emphasized the country's economic potential and opportunities for Korean investment and trade at the Cuba Business Forum, despite decades of US sanctions.

South Korean stocks closed higher on Thursday, recovering from an earlier fall, driven by gains in major semiconductor shares following robust export data. The market also navigated ongoing uncertainties in the Middle East.

Environmental issues, including climate change, extreme weather, biodiversity loss, and energy transition, are no longer solely concerns of environmental activists but have become core agendas impacting economy, industry, diplomacy, and security. Governments and corporations are investing heavily to achieve carbon reduction targets, making environmental policy a key factor in national competitiveness, exemplified by carbon neutrality policies.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korea Tourism Organization are launching 'Korea Camp,' a global advertising campaign for Korean tourism, in partnership with the Netflix variety show 'Jae-seok's B&B Rules!'.

Korea Zinc, the world's largest refined zinc smelter, announced it achieved full compliance with all 15 core corporate governance indicators in 2025, surpassing rival Young Poong amidst an ongoing proxy battle.

Samsung Electronics and SK hynix are being considered as potential investors for new semiconductor facilities in Korea's Honam region, raising hopes for the area to host its first major chip production base, despite both companies stating no such plans exist yet.

In aging South Korea, authorities are providing AI care devices to seniors living alone in various districts, including parts of Seoul and Yongin, to assist with elderly care.

South Korea's employment has fallen for the first time in 17 months, with government data indicating that the prolonged conflict in the Middle East is impacting the labor market, particularly manufacturers and young workers.

A new manga, blending fiction with facts, has been published to draw attention to the decades-old issue of North Korea's abductions of Japanese nationals.

South Korea's chip industry, supercharged by the advent of the AI age, has inspired a host of new phrases and slang, including terms like 'silicon-collar'.

An 18-year-old American musician and actor is gaining attention for his remake of a popular 1990s Korean ballad, bringing new life to the cherished song among K-pop fans.

South Korean prosecutors have decided not to indict Hybe officials following complaints filed by former Ador CEO Min Hee-jin, which included alleged defamation over claims that Min relied on shamans in managing the agency.

The European Union and South Korea have jointly declared that North Korea will 'never' be recognized as a nuclear state. This statement reinforces the international community's stance against Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program.

Despite closer ties with Moscow, China faces difficulties in keeping North Korea in line, as Beijing remains Pyongyang's primary diplomatic partner and a crucial buffer against international sanctions.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has arrived in Italy for discussions with the country's leaders on bilateral ties, marking the second stop of his 10-day European trip.

South Korea is pressing the European Union to ensure fair treatment regarding new steel import duties, advocating for its steel industry.

NVIDIA's CEO and South Korea's SK Group are anticipated to announce plans for a new collaboration, signaling potential advancements in technology or manufacturing.

The European Union and South Korea are reinforcing their economic cooperation and political dialogue. This enhanced partnership aims to strengthen ties in various sectors, including defense.

Students from 16 universities across South Korea are protesting a ballot shortage crisis, with scuffles breaking out during demonstrations. The protests condemn the lack of ballots and demand action.